Last week the Lathrop Police Department responded to an incident at the STEAM Academy at River Islands after a student allegedly threatened to bring a gun to school.

Despite social media posts containing information to the contrary, the agency clarified that no students or staff were in actual harm at any time during the incident.

Officers have been in contact with the student and their family and the agency said it is taking appropriate steps at this time – working closely with the site administration during the ongoing investigation.

“The Lathrop Police Department received a report of a student threatening to bring a gun to STEAM Academy,” the agency wrote in a release to the public about the incident. “We wish to assure you that we are taking this matter very seriously and are actively investigating the situation.

“The student in question has been identified, and our officers have been in contact with the family.”

The announcement last week alarmed many on social media in the wake of deadly school shootings across the United States, and ignited parents’ worst fears about the safety of their children when they leave the house – sparking a wide-ranging conversation on social media channels about what actually transpired and how authorities responded to the situation.

Student reports and a video that was circulating taken by students about the incident that supposedly shows what transpired

“We understand that this news is deeply concerning for everyone involved, and we want to reassure you that the safety and well-being of our students and staff are of the utmost importance to both the River Islands Academies and the Lathrop Police Department,” the agency wrote. “We have deployed the appropriate resources on and around campus and will continue to do so as long as necessary.”

Several members of the community were commenting on the Lathrop Police’s Facebook page as recently as Monday – noting that they were keeping their children out of school out of an abundance of caution and expressing their dismay over the lack of updated information about the incident.

The agency said that the matter is still being investigated and those with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the agency directly.

“As we continue to investigate and work closely with the school administration, we appreciate your support and understanding. Maintaining a safe and positive learning environment for all students is our top priority,” the agency wrote. “If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.

“We are committed to keep our community informed and will provide updates as appropriate.”

The Lathrop Police Department is located at 940 River Islands Parkway, and residents can reach the dispatch non-emergency number by calling 209.249.1800 or the administration and support division by calling 209.647.6400.

To contact Bulletin reporter Jason Campbell email jcampbell@mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544